Center for Human Services (CHS) – Oakdale Family Resource and Counseling Center introduced Angel Trees in 2011 to assist families in need during the holiday season. Last year, CHS – Oakdale Family Resource and Counseling Center hosted Angel Trees at four different sites and were able to provide gifts for approximately 130 Angels (local children). This year, the center is hosting Angel Trees at 10 sites and plan to serve over 160 Angels. If you or someone you know is interested in adopting a local 'Angel' in need this holiday season, Angel Trees can be found at the following locations:

The 45-voiced Columbia College Community Chorus with 25-piece orchestra, under the direction of John Carter, will present their annual Sounds of the Season Concerts Friday through Sunday, Dec. 6, 7, and 8 at the Historic Opera Hall at 250 S. Washington St., Sonora. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 3 p.m. on Sunday. Music on the program will include selections from J.S. Bach's Christmas Oratorio, Christmas motets, seasonal favorites and audience carol sing-a-longs. Tickets are $10 presale ($12 at the door) and $5 age 12 and under. Tickets are available at ...

In response to a complaint of parking availability by the business owner of Plaza 131, Oakdale City Manager Bryan Whitemyer asked the city council at its Dec. 2 meeting to designate that street parking on South Second Avenue in front of the business be designated only for the patrons of Plaza 131.

The City of Oakdale's manager Bryan Whitemyer requested a check for $99,000 from the Oakdale Irrigation District Board of Directors to keep the Royce Memorial Pool open at the Dec. 3 regular meeting of the board.

The Napa County Board of Supervisors, after a competitive interview process, announced on Tuesday, Nov. 26 that they have appointed Oakdale High School Class of 1979 graduate Greg Clark as Agriculture Commissioner/Sealer of Weights and Measures for Napa County. The department has 32 employees and a budget of $ 5.3 million.

For some, the ability to drive is a true sign of independence. Driving plays an important role in maintaining an active, fulfilling lifestyle. As part of the California Highway Patrol's (CHP) mission of providing the highest level of "Safety, Service, and Security" to people throughout the state, the CHP remains steadfast in maintaining and improving traffic safety and mobility for California's older drivers.

The Bureau of Reclamation announced the autumn interpretive programs at New Melones Lake. These Ranger-led activities support the Department of the Interior's Let's Move Outside initiative (www.letsmove.gov/lets-move-outside) which encourages children and their families to enjoy outdoor activities that abound in every city, town and community. All activities are free and suitable for all ages; most do not require reservations. Participants should wear sturdy shoes and clothing appropriate for the weather. A water bottle and sunscreen are recommended. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

With the Thanksgiving holiday now upon us, CAL FIRE is reminding Californians about the dangers that home fires pose during the holiday season. Holidays are a time of food, fun and festivities; but they are also a time to be extra cautious as thousands of home fires across the nation are caused from holiday cooking.

With the Thanksgiving travel season approaching, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) is reminding all motorists to ensure everyone inside their vehicle is buckled up, before heading out. Whether your travels take you across the country or just across town, buckling up is one way to help secure a safe arrival at your destination.

With the mission of recruiting new business as well as maintaining existing businesses in Oakdale, city officials have established a blue ribbon committee of local business and city leaders that have begun moving forward with an economic game plan.

Modesto Junior College's Agriculture and Environmental Science Division will be hosting its 60th Annual MJC Young Farmers Ag Holiday Auction on Thursday, Dec. 5. The auction features a large offering of gifts for everyone including home and garden items, travel activities, livestock feed and supplies, household goods, and much more.